Australia: Einstein’s theory of relativity features on new silver Proof coins marking the centenary of Wallal

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The Royal Australian Mint has released new silver Proof coins with a dome effect which remember a very special event occurring in a remote part of the country 100 years ago.

The design of the coin is the work of artist Adam Ball and, against a linear backdrop, depicts the Earth in correlation with Australia, with Wallal featured very prominently. The Earth sits in a funnel to highlight Einstein’s theory of relativity and to emphasise that many people gravitate towards Wallal. Above the Earth is the eclipse which could be seen best in a very narrow band across the Earth. The domed or concave design lends greater effect to the depiction and topic. Above the primary design along the edge is the text WALLAL CENTENARY AUSTRALIA TESTS EINSTEIN’S THEORY. The coins’ specifications of 1oz .999 Ag are shown below.

Both the one-dollar and five-dollar coins include the Commonwealth effigy on the obverse created by British engraver Jody Clark. The denomination of 1 DOLLAR or 5 DOLLARS (silver) is shown beneath the Queen’s likeness, with the year of issue 2022 included in the legend surrounding the portrait.

Denom.	Metal	Weight	Diameter	Quality	Mintage Limit
One dollar	Aluminum-bronze	9 g	25 mm	Brilliant Unc.	30,000
Five dollars	.999 Silver	31.1 g	39.6 mm	Proof	5,000

The base metal one-dollar coins are encapsulated and included in the presentation card. Each encapsulated silver Proof coin is included in a custom display case with a presentation carton and certificate of authenticity. For additional information, please click here for the base metal coin and here for the silver Proof coin.

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